Wheelchair fencer Gu Haiyan and powerlifter Qi Yongkai have been honored as China’s co-flagbearers for the Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Paris Summer Paralympics, the Chinese delegation announced on Monday.
At just 24, Gu Haiyan has already made a remarkable impact in para-fencing. She clinched two gold medals in the women’s individual foil A and team foil A-B events at the pandemic-delayed Tokyo Paralympics in 2021. Her success continued at last year’s Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, east China’s Zhejiang Province, where she dominated the competition by securing five golds and one silver.
Reflecting on her journey, Gu expressed her disbelief and excitement. “I had never thought that I could appear on the world’s top stage on behalf of my country,” she told China Media Group (CMG). “I feel honored.”
Gu is set to compete in an ambitious five events in Paris, including individual foil, epee, sabre, and team foil and epee, showcasing her versatility and determination to excel.
Qi Yongkai, 25, is another powerhouse in China’s Paralympic team. He soared to prominence by winning gold in the men’s 59-kilogram powerlifting division at the Tokyo Paralympics. Demonstrating his relentless pursuit of excellence, Qi set a new continental event record last year at the Asian Para Games by lifting an impressive 194 kilograms in the final.
“I’m so glad to be a flagbearer for China at the Paris Paralympics,” Qi shared with CMG, expressing his pride and eagerness to represent his nation on the global stage.
The 2024 Paris Summer Paralympics, set to commence on August 28 and conclude on September 9, will bring together around 4,400 athletes from 160 nations and regions. Competitors will vie for glory in 549 events across 22 sports. China’s delegation comprises 284 athletes who will participate in 302 events spanning 19 sports, underscoring the country’s strong commitment to Paralympic sports.
The selection of Gu and Qi as flagbearers is a testament to their outstanding achievements and the inspiration they provide to athletes across Asia and the world. Their stories exemplify dedication, resilience, and the spirit of the Paralympic movement.
Reference(s):
Gu Haiyan, Qi Yongkai named China's flagbearers for Paris Paralympics
cgtn.com
